How to Start a Bar Business in Kenya and Succeed

ByBizhack Editorial

Jan 31, 2023
Bar Business in Kenya

Last updated on March 2nd, 2024 at 05:44 pm

Are you thinking of starting a bar business in Kenya?

Bars are a lucrative business, and there’s a lot of potential for growth in the market.

But before you get too far ahead of yourself, there are a few things you need to know.

In this article, we’ll discuss the basics of starting a bar business in Kenya.

We’ll cover everything from licensing and permits to marketing and financing.

By the end, you’ll know exactly what it takes to get your business up and running.

So let’s get started

Identifying Potential Locations

When starting a bar business in Kenya, you need to identify potential locations.

One thing you’ll want to keep in mind is the population density of the area. You’ll also want to consider the competition and what types of bars are popular in the area.

You’ll also want to make sure that you have the necessary permits and licenses in order to open your bar.

Once you’ve identified a good location, then it’s time to start planning out your business.

Securing Financing and Acquiring Licenses

Next, you will need to secure financing and licenses to get your bar off the ground.

It’s also important to be realistic about the amount of money you will need to start and sustain your bar business.

This includes the cost of acquiring permits and licenses, as well as setting up your business and stocking your bar.

Your best bet is to speak with your local licensing authority to get a better understanding of what is required, and then start saving up.

However, the process can take some time, but it’s well worth it once you’re able to open the doors to your very own bar.

Pursuing Essential Supplies and Equipment for your bar business

So you want to open a bar business in Kenya? Well, as with any business venture, there are some essential supplies and equipment you’ll need to secure first.

Licenses and permits from the relevant authorities are a must, as is getting your business registered.

You’ll also need to stock up on bar supplies like liquor, glasses, straws and napkins. If you’re looking to set your business apart from the competition, you can consider investing in some specialty equipment like a blender or an ice machine.

But before you can worry about any of that, you need to figure out what type of bar you want to open.

Do you want a laid-back lounge where people can come to relax?

Or maybe a dance club that’s always jumping?

Once you’ve nailed down the concept, you can start working on the finer details and securing the necessary permits and licenses.

Choosing a Concept and Designing the Space

Choosing a concept for your new bar business in Kenya is one of the most important steps in the process. You’ll want to pick something that stands out and captures the attention of potential customers.

First you can start by researching existing and popular bars in the area, compiling ideas, and then picking a concept that sets you apart from the rest.

After that, it’s time to get to work on designing your space. You’ll want to consider factors like design style, lighting fixtures, furniture, seating capacity, and even music and entertainment options.

What are people drawn to?

What will make them want to visit your bar?

Answering these questions will help you create a unforgettable atmosphere that keeps people coming back for more.

Also;

Take your time when designing your bar space – it’s key to making sure your business is successful.

Promoting Your Brand and Generating Revenue

Now that you’ve gotten your bar business up and running, it’s time to get creative and think about how to promote your brand and start generating revenue.

One great way to promote your bar in Kenya is by offering specials or discounts.

For example you may decide to offer discounted drinks during the weekdays or a discounted price for early birds who come to the bar before a certain time.

This could help bring in more customers and build loyalty.

Another option is to host special events throughout the year.

For instance you can rent out space for birthday parties, corporate events, or even concerts.

This will help you earn more money since people are likely to purchase more drinks and food in bulk.

In addition, if your bar has a strong reputation in the community, this could be a great way to gain exposure and attract new customers.

Finally, don’t forget to invest in digital marketing campaigns such as social media ads or influencer campaigns.

Because promoting your bar business online can be an effective way of reaching out to people outside your locality and gaining visibility for your business in Kenya.

Staffing, Training, and Optimizing Your Operation

Now that you have a license, the next step is to nail down the details concerning your staff and operations.

When it comes to staffing, it’s important to clearly define your expectations. This means creating job descriptions and manuals for the different roles within your bar and making sure that everyone understands their responsibilities.

In addition, make sure you provide thorough training on drink recipes, customer service, and any other skills they need to be successful in their role.

This is especially important because many customers will judge you on the quality of service they receive.

Plus, it’s essential that you make sure all members of staff are adhering to health and safety rules.

Also, you need to create a regular monitoring system to ensure compliance with these regulations in order to avoid pricey penalties or worse—issues with patrons.

Finally, don’t forget of taking advantage of technology such as analytics and POS systems so that you can optimize operations and keep track of financials like inventory management.

These are the basics you need to know in order to start a bar business in Kenya. Just remember to do your research, put in the hard work, and stay focused on your goals, and you’ll be well on your way to achieving success in no time.